A DEPARTMENT store earmarked for closure in the North-East is to remain open, bosses have confirmed.

In November, House of Fraser announced the branch at the Metrocentre, in Gateshead, was to cease trading.

It followed the £90 million takeover by Newcastle United’s owner Mike Ashley in August.

Today, the firm said the Metrocentre store, along with outlets at Norwich, Lakeside and Nottingham are to stay open.

House of Fraser spokesman Mike Murray said: “After the stalled talks with INTU we are happy to announce that we have come to an agreement that will help secure the future of House of Fraser INTU stores in Norwich, Metro Centre, Lakeside and Nottingham.

“This is great news for over a thousand employees whose jobs have now been saved. “We would like to thank INTU and all of our colleagues for their hard work and patience throughout the past five months.

“This shows further commitment to the high street and the turnaround of House of Fraser.”